Mumbai: India is home to seven sacred rivers, which are revered for their spiritual significance. Among them, the Narmada River holds a special place in Hinduism. According to the Hindu calendar, the seventh day (Saptami) of the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Magh is considered highly auspicious. On this sacred day, Narmada Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion. This day also coincides with Ratha Saptami, another significant Hindu festival. Devotees in large numbers take a holy dip in the Narmada and other revered rivers, offering prayers to Goddess Narmada.

It is believed that bathing in the Narmada River on this day helps cleanse one’s sins—both intentional and unintentional—and brings divine blessings. But why exactly is Narmada Jayanti celebrated? Let’s explore its significance, date, and rituals in detail.

When is Narmada Jayanti in 2025?

According to the Vedic Panchang, in 2025, Narmada Jayanti will be observed on February 4. The Shukla Paksha Saptami of the Magh month will begin at 4:37 AM on February 4 and end at 2:30 AM on February 5. Hence, this year, devotees will celebrate Narmada Jayanti on February 4, 2025.

Why is Narmada Jayanti Celebrated?

According to Hindu scriptures and ancient texts, Goddess Narmada is believed to have incarnated on the Saptami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Magh. To honour this divine descent, devotees celebrate Narmada Jayanti every year with great faith and devotion.

Spiritual beliefs suggest that taking a holy dip in the Narmada River on this day washes away all sins and provides relief from physical and mental suffering. It is said that worshipping Goddess Narmada on this auspicious day brings prosperity, happiness, and good fortune. One of the major highlights of Narmada Jayanti is the grand fair organised on the banks of the Narmada River at Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh, where devotees gather to seek divine blessings.

Significance of Bathing in the Narmada River

• Taking a dip in the Narmada River on Narmada Jayanti is believed to cleanse all sins and bestow divine grace.
• According to Hindu beliefs, bathing in the Narmada River helps in removing Kaal Sarp Dosh, a significant astrological affliction.
• Devotees follow the ritual of offering a pair of silver serpents (Nag-Nagin) into the river to get relief from Kaal Sarp Dosh.
• The pebbles found in the Narmada River are regarded as Narmadeshwar Shivling, and they hold immense religious importance.
• The origin of the Narmada River, Amarkantak, is considered one of the holiest places to celebrate Narmada Jayanti.
• After taking a holy dip, devotees offer flowers, turmeric, and vermilion to the river as a mark of reverence and gratitude.

Narmada Jayanti is a deeply spiritual occasion that strengthens faith in the divine powers of nature. The rituals and traditions associated with this day reflect the deep-rooted belief in the sanctity of the Narmada River, which is considered a symbol of purification and blessings. Whether by participating in sacred river baths, special prayers, or grand celebrations at Amarkantak, devotees across India come together to honour the divine presence of Goddess Narmada on this auspicious day.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not independently verify the religious significance of these rituals.)